Many simple compounds of elements such as
AlCl3,GaCl3 and
InCl3 are covalent while anhydrous but in aqueous solution, these are ionic in nature. In anhydrous condition, the (charge\/radius) ratio, i.e. polarisability of
Al3+ is high and hence, according to Fajans' rule,
Al3+ polarises
Cl− ions to large extent, there introducing covalent character in the compound, i.e.
AlCl3 behaves as a covalent compound in anhydrous conditions.
In aqueous medium the ions get hydrated, because the amount of hydration enthalpy released exceeds, the sum total of ionisation enthalpy required.
Since, the (charge\/radius ratio of hydrated aluminium ion is much smaller as compared to that of
Al3+, the tendency of
[Al(H2O)6]3+ topolarise hydrated
Cl⊖ ion decreases and the resulting hydrated compound is ionic in nature.